Atlas stares in disbelief. "What the fuck is this? A group of ghouls! This isn't normal behavior for them. They're just walking around like they're mindless!" He readies himself, unsure whether to approach or avoid the bizarre scene. His hand hovers over his weapon, instincts on high alert.
Atlas takes a cautious step forward, eyes scanning the ghouls for any sign of aggression. The ghouls, oblivious to his presence, continue their aimless shuffle.
"This can't be right," he mutters to himself. "Ghouls are never this passive."
He inches closer, trying to get a better look. As he does, one of the ghouls suddenly stops and turns its head, locking eyes with him. Atlas freezes, heart pounding. The ghoul seems to hesitate for a moment before resuming its mindless wandering.
Atlas lets out a breath he didn't realize he was holding. "What the hell is going on here?" he wonders. Deciding he needs more information, he cautiously approaches the nearest ghoul, ready for anything.
Approaching the ghoul, Atlas grabs his weapon and, with a swift motion, cuts the ghoul's head off. The body crumples to the ground, lifeless. He watches it for a moment, expecting some reaction from the others, but they remain unaffected, continuing their aimless shuffle.
"Something's definitely wrong here," Atlas mutters. He scans the area, searching for any clues that might explain this bizarre behavior. The air feels heavy with an unnatural stillness, making his skin crawl. He decides to move forward, staying alert for any signs of danger or answers to the mystery surrounding these ghouls.
Atlas looks around, the unsettling silence only amplifying the strangeness of the scene. He decides it's time to use one of his relics, hoping to gain some insight or protection. But as his hand instinctively reaches for the relic pouch, his fingers brush against thin fabric. He glances down and realizes, with a sinking feeling, that he's still in his pajamas.
"Fucking hell," he mutters under his breath, the absurdity of the situation hitting him hard. Here he is, in the middle of what could be a dangerous encounter, dressed like he just rolled out of bed. The thought almost makes him laugh, but the ghouls' eerie presence keeps him on edge.
Atlas quickly assesses his options, feeling the chill of the night air through the thin material of his pajamas. He can't help but curse under his breath again. "Of all the times..."
But there's no turning back now. Pajamas or not, he knows he has to press on. He tightens his grip on his weapon, adrenaline starting to kick in, and continues forward.
Atlas pauses, glancing down at his pajama-clad form with a mix of frustration and urgency. "I have to go back for my relics and get dressed," he mutters, realizing that he can't afford to be unprepared in this situation. Now isn't the time to criticize himself for looking stupid; there's too much at stake.
He turns on his heel, moving quickly but carefully away from the bizarre scene. The ghouls remain oblivious, continuing their aimless wandering as Atlas makes his way back to his camp. As he hurries, he can't shake the feeling that something is very wrong here, and he knows he'll need every bit of gear and preparation he can muster to face whatever's coming.
As Atlas walks back to his bedroom, his thoughts shift to Retro. The lack of his usual presence gnaws at the back of Atlas's mind. "Where could he be?" he murmurs to himself. Then he remembers, "Well, I did tell him to deal with the anti-magic that's in the air."
But the reassurance does little to ease the growing tension in his chest. As Atlas approaches the door to his room, an eerie feeling washes over him, stopping him in his tracks. The hairs on the back of his neck stand on end, and a chill creeps up his spine. Something's not right. He hesitates, listening intently, his instincts screaming at him to be cautious.
Atlas tightens his grip on his weapon, every sense on high alert. Whatever is causing this unsettling sensation could be just on the other side of the door—or it could be something much worse, lurking just out of sight.
Atlas tightens his grip on the doorknob, heart pounding as he turns it and slowly pushes the door open. The moment he crosses the threshold, a wave of intense bloodlust hits him, almost tangible in the air. His instincts flare, every muscle in his body tensing in response to the overwhelming sense of danger.
His eyes quickly scan the room, and there, on the balcony, he sees a girl standing motionless, her back to him as she looks down at something below. But it's not her that's the source of the bloodlust. His gaze shifts to Retro, who stands nearby, holding a piece of paper in his hand. It's Retro who's exuding this palpable aura of menace, his usual calm demeanor replaced by something much darker.
Atlas's mind races, trying to piece together what's happening. The bloodlust coming from Retro is unlike anything he's felt from him before. "Retro... what the hell is going on?" Atlas thinks, not daring to voice the question aloud just yet. The room is thick with tension, and one wrong move could tip the situation into chaos.
He keeps his grip firm on his weapon, ready for anything, as he carefully watches Retro's every move, waiting for a sign of what's to come.
Retro's gaze shifts to Atlas, and as their eyes meet, the intense bloodlust in the air slowly dissipates. "Phantom is here," Retro says, his voice steady but carrying the weight of the situation.
Atlas's heart skips a beat, and his eyes widen in shock. Without a second thought, he drops his weapon, the urgency of the moment overtaking everything else. Phantom's presence changes everything.
He rushes over to his bedside, frantically stripping out of his pajamas. There's no time to waste. As he throws on his clothes, his mind races with thoughts of what Phantom's arrival could mean. He knows all too well the danger that comes with that name, and the fact that Retro had to resort to such intense bloodlust means this threat is unlike any other.
Atlas quickly fastens his gear, every second feeling like an eternity. Once dressed, he grabs his relics, the weight of them in his hands bringing a small measure of comfort. Ready for whatever awaits, he turns to Retro, determination hardening his gaze. "Where is he?" Atlas asks, bracing himself for the answer, knowing that whatever comes next, they have to face it head-on.
"First, we need to figure out what this anti-magic crap is that's blocking us from using our full powers," Retro says, his tone sharp with urgency. "Without that, we're sitting ducks."
Atlas nods, feeling the weight of the situation settle heavily on his shoulders. The realization that their abilities are being suppressed makes everything more dangerous. If Phantom is truly here, they need every bit of their strength to stand a chance.
"And as for where he is... not a clue," Retro adds, his voice tinged with frustration. The lack of information only adds to the tension. Phantom could be anywhere, watching, waiting to strike when they're most vulnerable.
Atlas tightens the straps on his gear, his mind racing to find a solution. "We need to neutralize that anti-magic field," he mutters, more to himself than to Retro. "Once we do, we'll be able to track him down."
He looks at Retro, seeing the same determination in his eyes. "Any ideas on how we start?" Atlas asks, ready to do whatever it takes to regain their full strength and face this looming threat.
"Let me take care of the anti-magic field," Retro says, his confidence cutting through the tension in the air. "You, Atlas, need to find Nexus. I'm sensing a strange magical effect coming from a mansion down the road. You might have better luck finding him there, but be careful—it's going to take some time to get through the abnormal number of ghouls around."
Atlas nods, his mind already shifting to the task at hand. The mention of the mansion piques his curiosity, but the thought of Nexus being there makes his resolve even stronger.
"Oh, and before I forget," Retro continues, motioning to the girl on the balcony. "This here is Lilly. She's half-dragon, half-elf."
Lilly, who had been silent until now, offers a slight wave of her hand, her gaze meeting Atlas's with a mix of curiosity and quiet strength. The scales on her arm catch the dim light, a subtle reminder of her draconic heritage.
Atlas gives her a quick nod, acknowledging her presence. "Nice to meet you, Lilly," he says, though his focus is already shifting back to the task ahead.
"I'll head to the mansion and find Nexus," Atlas says, tightening his grip on his weapon. "Retro, be careful with that anti-magic field. We're going to need all the power we can get once I find Nexus."
With that, Atlas turns and heads toward the door, ready to face whatever lies between him and the mansion. The ghouls, the strange magic, and the looming threat of Phantom—all of it feels like a storm gathering on the horizon. But Atlas is determined to push through. As he steps out, he casts one last glance at Retro and Lilly, hoping they can handle their end of the mission while he tackles his.
Atlas pauses at the doorway and glances back at Retro, concerned briefly flickering in his eyes. Retro meets his gaze, his expression firm and reassuring. "Don't worry about us," Retro says, his voice calm yet commanding. "Focus on finding Nexus. We'll handle things here."
Atlas nods, feeling a surge of resolve. He knows he can trust Retro to deal with the anti-magic field and protect Lilly. With that reassurance, he turns and heads out, his mind zeroed in on the task ahead.
As he steps into the night, the path to the mansion stretches before him, shrouded in darkness and the unknown. The eerie presence of ghouls lingers in the air, but Atlas pushes forward, his focus unwavering. He needs to find Nexus, no matter what stands in his way.
Atlas sprints down the hall and bursts out onto the streets, his breath steady despite the urgency pounding in his chest. The cold night air bites at his skin, but he pays it no mind as he summons his ice sword with a flick of his wrist. The blade materializes, crackling with frosty energy, its surface shimmering with an ethereal blue light.
Without hesitation, he charges down the street, his senses on high alert. The ghouls, drawn to his presence, lurch forward from the shadows, their lifeless eyes fixed on him. But Atlas doesn't slow down.
With each step, he swings his ice sword with precision and force, the blade slicing through the ghouls with ease. The air fills with the sound of shattering ice as the creatures fall, frozen solid before crumbling to pieces. Atlas barely pauses, his momentum carrying him forward as more ghouls emerge, their numbers growing with every block he passes.
But Atlas is relentless. His focus sharpens with each strike, the cold energy of his sword pulsing through his veins. The ghouls are no match for his speed and skill; they fall one by one, their twisted forms dissolving into icy fragments in his wake.
As he nears the mansion Retro mentioned, Atlas can feel the strange magical energy Retro warned him about growing stronger. The ghouls seem to be converging around the area, as if drawn to it, but he doesn't let that deter him. With every swing of his sword, he clears a path, determined to reach Nexus and uncover the mystery that's pulling these creatures to this place.
The mansion looms ahead, dark and foreboding, and Atlas knows the real challenge lies within its walls. But with his ice sword in hand and the determination burning in his chest, he's ready for whatever comes next.
As the cold night deepens, creeping past midnight, the scene unfolds like a twisted tableau of survival and determination. Atlas, relentless and unwavering, continues to carve his way through the horde of ghouls that seem to multiply with every passing moment. His ice sword flashes under the pale moonlight, leaving a trail of frozen bodies in his wake. The air around him is frigid, each breath visible as mist, but Atlas is undeterred. His focus remains on the mansion ahead, where Nexus may be trapped.
Meanwhile, deep within the mansion, Nexus is a blur of motion, desperately trying to escape whatever dark force has ensnared him. The walls seem to close in, distorted by the strange magic that Retro had sensed. Nexus can feel the oppressive weight of it, tugging at his own powers, making every step a struggle. He knows he needs to get out before it's too late, but the mansion's labyrinthine halls seem intent on keeping him trapped.
Above it all, Retro stands on a rooftop, overlooking the chaotic scene below. His eyes scan the streets, tracking Atlas's progress and monitoring the mansion where Nexus is likely fighting for his life. The once vibrant city is now a battlefield, and Retro knows that the worst is yet to come.
Lilly stands beside him, her eyes reflecting the same concern that Retro feels. The half-dragon, half-elf seems tense, her innate magic simmering just beneath the surface. Her gaze flickers between the distant glow of Atlas's icy onslaught and the dark silhouette of the mansion.
"We need to be ready," Retro says quietly, his voice carrying the weight of their situation. "Phantom won't stay hidden for long, and once the anti-magic field is down, things are going to get a lot more dangerous."
Lilly nods, understanding the gravity of their task. She flexes her fingers, feeling the power of her dual heritage stir within her. "I'm ready," she replies, her voice steady but laced with anticipation.
Retro's eyes narrow as he continues to observe the battlefield. "Good. Let's make sure Atlas and Nexus have the time they need. We'll deal with whatever comes our way."
As the night wears on, the tension thickens, a palpable sense of impending doom hanging over the city. Atlas pushes forward, Nexus fights to break free, and Retro and Lilly stand vigilant, knowing that the real battle is just beginning.
Retro's gaze shifts to a nearby field of flowers, their petals glowing faintly in the moonlight. His eyes narrow as he senses a subtle yet distinct magical presence emanating from the area. "I can sense magic over there," he murmurs, pointing toward the field. The energy is different from the oppressive anti-magic barrier, almost as if something is trying to push back against it.
"I'll stay here and cast my spells to break the anti-magic barrier," Retro continues, his tone decisive. He knows time is of the essence, and they need to use every resource at their disposal.
"Okay," Lilly responds, determination flashing in her eyes. Without a moment's hesitation, she leaps gracefully from the rooftop, her form barely a blur as she descends toward the field of flowers below. Her movements are fluid and precise, a testament to her elven agility and draconic strength.
As Lilly lands softly in the field, she takes a moment to absorb the tranquil beauty around her. The flowers seem to hum with latent magic, their presence almost calming despite the chaos in the distance. But Lilly doesn't let herself get distracted. She knows this place holds some significance, and she needs to uncover its secrets quickly.
Meanwhile, back on the rooftop, Retro focuses on his task. He raises his hands, palms outstretched as he begins to channel his magic. The air around him crackles with energy as he weaves intricate spells designed to disrupt and dismantle the anti-magic barrier that's been suppressing their powers. His brow furrows in concentration, each incantation bringing them one step closer to leveling the playing field.
Lilly, now surrounded by the softly glowing flowers, starts to explore the field, her senses attuned to any anomalies in the magic. She can feel the pulses of energy beneath the earth, the way the flowers almost seem to respond to her presence. There's something here, something connected to the barrier, and she's determined to find it.
As the night deepens, the tension mounts. Retro's spells clash against the unseen barrier, slowly chipping away at it, while Lilly moves deeper into the field, following the mysterious magic that might be the key to their victory. Time is running out, and they all know it.
— Flashback —
As Atlas left the room, Lilly turned to Retro, curiosity etched on her face. "Atlas... he's of the Red Wood Fox clan, isn't he?"
Retro shook his head slowly, his expression thoughtful. "Not entirely. He's a mix—Red Wood Fox and Hellhound blood. That combination makes him a formidable opponent, especially if he ever masters his Hellhound lineage."
Lilly's eyes widened with interest. "Can he use magic?"
Retro leaned back, considering his response. "Not in the traditional sense. He can wield it when his emotions, especially anger, take control. But as far as I know, he lacks full mastery. If he ever learns to control that power... he'd be nothing short of a monster."
Lilly absorbed the information, her mind racing with possibilities. "And what about the boy, Nexus? That's his name, right?"
A sly smile spread across Retro's face. "Nexus is a Shadow Fox, and that bloodline is almost extinct. If he manages to unlock the potential within his lineage, he'd be just as dangerous as his father, Atlas."
Lilly nodded, understanding the gravity of what Retro had just revealed. Both Atlas and Nexus held untapped power that could turn the tide of any battle—if they learned to harness it. The thought left her both intrigued and wary of what the future might hold.
Retro sighed, a hint of frustration creeping into his voice. "Now if only he would stop holding back," he muttered, more to himself than to Lilly. "Atlas has so much potential, but he's always afraid of what might happen if he lets go. If he ever embraced that side of him fully, no one would stand a chance against him."
Lilly glanced at Retro, understanding the weight of his words. "Maybe he's afraid of becoming something he can't control," she offered, her tone thoughtful. "It's not easy balancing that kind of power."
Retro nodded. "True, but in this world, holding back can be just as dangerous as losing control. Sooner or later, Atlas is going to have to make a choice." He paused, then added, "And when he does, I hope he chooses the path that leads to his true strength, not his fear."
The two of them fell silent, the gravity of the situation settling in. Both knew that the battles ahead would require every ounce of strength, and they could only hope that when the time came, Atlas would stop holding back and unleash the power that lay dormant within him.
Retro nodded thoughtfully, his gaze distant as if considering the weight of their conversation. "Same with Nexus," he added. "He's got that same hesitation, that same fear of what he might become. But the difference with him is that he's still young—still figuring out who he is. If he keeps holding back, he'll never truly unlock the potential of his bloodline."
Lilly's expression softened. "He's probably scared," she said quietly. "It's a lot to carry, knowing you have that kind of power inside you."
Retro's eyes narrowed slightly, his mind focused on the future. "Scared or not, Nexus will have to face it eventually. If he doesn't, it could mean the difference between life and death—for him, for Atlas, for all of us." He sighed, a mix of concern and hope in his voice. "But if he and Atlas both stop holding back… if they embrace who they really are… then they'll be unstoppable."
The weight of their words lingered in the air, both of them knowing that the time would come when Atlas and Nexus would need to make their choices. And when that moment arrived, they could only hope it would be the right one.
And what of you retro? Lilly asked.
Lilly's question hung in the air, bringing Retro's thoughts back to the present. He looked at her, his expression unreadable for a moment before a small, almost wistful smile crossed his face.
"What about me?" he replied, his tone light, but there was a hint of something deeper beneath the surface. "I've made my choices, Lilly. A long time ago. I know who I am and what I'm capable of. My role is to guide them, to help them realize their potential—because the truth is, it's not about me anymore."
Lilly watched him closely, sensing the weight of his words. "You've been through a lot, haven't you?" she asked, her voice softer now.
Retro chuckled lightly, a sound that carried both amusement and a touch of melancholy. "More than I care to remember," he admitted. "But that's the thing about surviving—you learn, you grow, and eventually, you find that your purpose isn't just about your own power. It's about what you can do for others, how you can help them find their own path."
He turned his gaze back to the darkened city below, where Atlas was still fighting, and Nexus was struggling to escape. "They're the future, Lilly. And whatever I've been through, whatever power I have… it's all to make sure they get the chance to be what they're meant to be."
Lilly nodded, her respect for Retro deepening. "You're more than just a guide, Retro. You're a protector."
Retro smiled again, this time more genuinely. "Maybe. But the real power lies with them. I'm just here to make sure they realize it."
With that, the conversation drifted into a comfortable silence, the two of them standing side by side, knowing that the battles ahead would test them all—but also knowing that they wouldn't face those battles alone.
— Flashback ends —
As the night deepens, the tension in the air thickens, pressing down on them like a heavy fog. Retro's spells crackle with energy, each one a concentrated effort to dismantle the unseen barrier that's holding back their full power. The anti-magic field resists, stubborn and unyielding, but Retro's determination is stronger. He grits his teeth, pushing his magic to its limits, each incantation chipping away at the barrier, bit by bit.
Lilly, meanwhile, moves silently through the field of flowers, her senses tuned to the strange magic pulsing beneath the earth. The flowers glow faintly, their petals brushing against her as she passes, as if guiding her toward the source of the energy. The deeper she goes, the stronger the magic feels, tugging at her awareness, urging her forward. She knows that whatever lies at the heart of this field might be the key to breaking the anti-magic barrier—and possibly much more.
The night grows colder, the sky above a dark canvas dotted with stars, but neither Retro nor Lilly waver. They both know time is running out. Every moment that passes brings them closer to a confrontation they may not be fully prepared for. Nexus is still out there, possibly in danger, and Atlas is fighting his way through hordes of ghouls, getting closer to the mansion with every swing of his ice sword.
Retro glances up from his spellcasting, his eyes briefly scanning the horizon where the mansion looms in the distance. He can feel the pressure building, the sense that something—or someone—dangerous is drawing near. Phantom's presence is like a shadow on the edge of his consciousness, a reminder that the true battle is yet to come.
Lilly, sensing the urgency, quickens her pace. The flowers around her seem to vibrate with energy, their glow intensifying as she approaches the center of the field. She can feel the magic here, ancient and powerful, intertwined with the earth itself. Whatever this place is, it's important—crucial to their success.
As she reaches the heart of the field, Lilly stops, her eyes narrowing as she spots something unusual among the flowers: a small, ancient stone altar, covered in runes that pulse with the same strange magic she's been following. The energy emanating from it is almost overwhelming, like a heartbeat in the earth. This is it—the source of the magic. She knows instinctively that this altar holds the key to breaking the anti-magic barrier, but how to unlock its power remains a mystery.
Back on the rooftop, Retro feels a shift, a subtle change in the air. He glances toward the field, sensing that Lilly has found something. He redoubles his efforts, his spells growing more potent as he channels everything he has into breaking the barrier.
The minutes tick by, each one bringing them closer to whatever fate awaits. The night is alive with magic and danger, and as Retro's spells finally begin to wear down the barrier, and as Lilly prepares to unlock the secrets of the altar, they both know there's no turning back now. Everything hinges on these next few moments.
Point of view change to nexus.
Nexus slowly wakes up in a dimly lit, barricaded room. As he tries to stand, a sharp pain shoots through his side, forcing him to grab at the wound. Grimacing, he sinks back down, breathing heavily. Desperation drives him to summon his shadow fire, and to his relief, it flickers to life in his hand—but it's weak, barely more than a small, unstable flame.
Knowing he has limited options, Nexus focuses his energy, willing the flame to grow just enough. It sputters and wavers, but he gathers it in his palm, feeling the heat intensify. With a determined glare, he hurls the shadow fire at the wall, watching as it explodes on impact, breaking down the wall.
As the smoke clears, Nexus sees the outside world through the jagged hole in the wall. His escape route is finally within reach, though he knows he's far from safe.
Gritting his teeth against the pain, Nexus forces himself to stand. His legs tremble under the strain, but he knows he can't afford to stay in that room. Each step is agonizing, but he pushes through, determined to reach the outside. The cool night air greets him as he finally stumbles out of the mansion, its eerie silence a stark contrast to the horrors within.
His eyes lock onto the chain gates blocking his path. Desperation surges within him as he summons his shadow fire again. This time, the flames are even weaker, barely flickering in his palm. Sweat beads on his forehead as he focuses all his remaining strength into the fire, hoping it will be enough.
With a trembling hand, Nexus launches the weak flames at the gates. The fire sputters and struggles, but it manages to wrap around the chains, slowly eating through them. It takes longer than before, each moment feeling like an eternity as the fire weakens further. But finally, with a final burst of energy, the chains give way, clattering to the ground.
Exhausted and barely holding on, Nexus pushes the gates open and staggers through, his vision swimming as he fights to stay conscious. The world beyond the mansion feels almost unreal, a distant promise of safety that still seems so far away. But with the last of his strength, Nexus moves forward, determined to survive.
Nexus stumbles down the street, every step a battle against the pain that wracks his body. The world around him blurs, his vision dimming as exhaustion threatens to overtake him. But he keeps moving, determined to put as much distance between himself and the mansion as possible.
Suddenly, a noise from behind snaps him out of his daze. The sound of heavy footsteps echoes in the night, growing louder with each passing second. Nexus glances back and sees his worst fear—his attacker, the one who had nearly killed him, has emerged from the mansion and is now barreling down the street in pursuit.
With his strength all but gone, Nexus knows he can't outrun this threat. His breath comes in ragged gasps as he forces himself to keep moving, each step more desperate than the last. The shadowy flames in his hand flicker weakly, barely enough to defend himself, but he clenches his fist, ready to make one last stand if he must. The street stretches on before him, but the relentless footsteps behind him draw closer and closer, the night closing in around him.
As the man closes in, Nexus, in a final act of defiance, turns and grabs him, using what little strength he has left. But before the outcome is revealed, the scene shifts abruptly.
Down the street, Atlas is locked in a fierce battle with a swarm of ghouls. His movements are a blur of power and precision as he tears through the undead creatures, his claws slicing through their decayed flesh. The night air is filled with the ghastly sounds of the ghouls' growls and the sharp impact of Atlas's strikes.
One ghoul lunges at him from the side, but Atlas is ready. He sidesteps the attack and counters with a vicious swipe, sending the creature crashing to the ground. Another ghoul leaps from behind, but Atlas spins, delivering a powerful kick that sends it flying into a nearby wall, where it crumples into a lifeless heap.
Despite the overwhelming numbers, Atlas fights with a relentless fury, determined to wipe out every last ghoul. His eyes burn with an intense focus, his mind set on the task at hand, oblivious to the danger Nexus faces just a short distance away.
As the attacker plunged the knife into Nexus's heart, the blade gleamed ominously under the cold moonlight. Nexus's body crumpled to the ground in a final, silent collapse, his life slipping away in an instant. Atlas, running down the street, caught sight of the brutal act just as the blade sank into his son's chest. His heart seized with horror, and then, like a wildfire ignited by a single spark, his rage erupted.
Fueled by a surge of fury, Atlas roared and charged at the assailant with a force that seemed to shake the very earth beneath him. In a blur of movement, he reached the attacker and, with a thunderous punch, drove him hard against the stone wall. The impact was bone-shattering, a testament to the raw power that Atlas could unleash when pushed to his limits.
Ignoring the dazed assailant for the moment, Atlas cradled Nexus's lifeless body in his arms, his breath coming in ragged gasps as he tried desperately to channel his healing powers. His hands trembled as he attempted to reverse the mortal wound, but deep down, he knew it was futile. The damage was too severe, and the life force had already begun to fade from Nexus's body.
As he worked frantically, a sudden, deafening sound of glass shattering pierced the night. The noise cut through the tense silence, adding a new layer of chaos to the scene. Bright lines of light began to engulf the entire town, weaving through the streets as the magical illusion that had cloaked the area started to unravel.
Atlas, still holding Nexus's body, looked up in shock and saw Retro standing before him, his expression grim but focused. Retro's eyes flickered briefly to Nexus, then to the man who was slowly crawling his way out from the indentation in the wall.
Without a word, Retro reached into his coat and dropped a small vial into Atlas's arms. "Use the healing potion and your transfiguration magic to mend his wounds," Retro instructed, his voice steady despite the tension in the air. "The anti-magic effect has been lifted, so don't hold back."
Atlas hesitated for only a moment, his mind racing to catch up with the situation. "Alright," he responded, his voice tight with determination. He knew there was no time to waste, no room for error. Nexus's life depended on his next actions.
As Atlas focused on Nexus, the man finally managed to crawl out from the wall, groaning in pain. But before he could say a word or even catch his breath, Retro was upon him. With a swift, terrifying motion, Retro grabbed the man's face, his grip like iron. The man's eyes widened in terror as he felt the overwhelming bloodlust radiating from Retro-a suffocating, all-consuming aura that left no doubt of the danger he was in.
Without a single word of explanation, Retro and the man vanished, leaving Atlas alone with Nexus. The streets were eerily quiet, the earlier sounds of battle and chaos now replaced by a heavy, oppressive silence.
Atlas's heart pounded as he worked quickly, using the healing potion and his transfiguration magic in tandem, desperately trying to mend Nexus's wounds. He could feel the faint pulse of life within his son, fragile and fading, but still there. With every ounce of his willpower, Atlas fought to bring Nexus back, knowing that his son's survival rested entirely in his hands.
Atlas's hands trembled as he poured every ounce of his willpower into healing Nexus, his heart pounding with the fear that he might be too late. Nexus's breathing was shallow, his pulse faint—life slipping away with every second. Desperation clawed at Atlas's mind, the overwhelming sense that he was losing his son threatening to tear him apart.
And then, in that moment of despair, something deep within Atlas awakened—a primal, ancient power that surged through his veins like molten lava. It was a force he had felt only a few times before, a dark, almost forbidden strength tied to the Hellhound blood that coursed through him. As the power flooded his body, Atlas felt his vision blur, his senses heighten, and his mind focus on one singular thought: saving Nexus.
Without fully understanding what he was doing, Atlas leaned over his son, his hands glowing with an intense, otherworldly energy. The only word that left his mouth, spoken with a voice that was not entirely his own, was *"Hell's Regeneration."*
The moment the words were uttered, a dark, fiery aura erupted from Atlas's body, encircling both him and Nexus in a swirling vortex of hellish flames. The flames were not hot to the touch but instead pulsed with a deep, regenerative energy—one that seemed to resonate with the very essence of life itself.
The energy flowed from Atlas into Nexus, coursing through his wounds, knitting flesh and bone back together with unnatural speed. The gaping wound in Nexus's chest began to close, the torn tissue regenerating as if time itself had reversed. Atlas could feel the life force returning to his son, the pulse of Nexus's heart growing stronger with each passing second.
The process was draining, sapping Atlas's own strength as he channeled the full might of Hell's Regeneration into Nexus. But he didn't care. All that mattered was seeing Nexus open his eyes again, to hear him breathe, to know that he had saved him.
As the last remnants of the dark flames faded, Atlas collapsed to his knees, his body exhausted but his heart filled with a fierce determination. Nexus's chest rose and fell steadily now, the color returning to his face, the life once more flowing through his veins.
Atlas watched, breathless, as Nexus's eyelids fluttered and slowly opened, revealing those familiar, yet still fragile, eyes. Relief washed over Atlas, so profound it nearly brought him to tears.
He had done it. He had saved his son. The Hellhound power within him had answered his desperate call, and against all odds, Nexus had been pulled back from the brink of death.
As Atlas knelt beside Nexus, the weight of what had just happened pressed heavily on him. His body ached from the immense effort of using Hell's Regeneration, and the exhaustion was beginning to settle in. Nexus was alive, breathing steadily now, but the experience had taken a toll on them both. The dark flames that had saved Nexus had also left Atlas drained, both physically and mentally.
Just as Atlas was beginning to catch his breath, he heard soft footsteps approaching from behind. Lilly, who had been nearby, walked up cautiously, her eyes wide with concern. The tension in the air was palpable, and though the immediate threat seemed to have passed, the night was far from over.
"Atlas," Lilly said softly as she reached them, her gaze shifting between the two. She could see the exhaustion etched on Atlas's face, the way his hands trembled slightly from the exertion. But most of all, she saw the deep, unspoken relief in his eyes as he looked down at his son, alive and breathing.
"How is he?" Lilly asked, kneeling beside them. She gently reached out to check Nexus's pulse, her touch careful and precise. Despite her usual composed demeanor, there was an undercurrent of worry in her voice.
"He's alive," Atlas replied, his voice hoarse. "Barely. But he's alive."
Lilly nodded, her relief palpable. "You did it. You brought him back." She glanced around, her eyes narrowing as she surveyed the surroundings. "Retro's still dealing with the attacker, isn't he?"
Atlas nodded slowly, his gaze flickering in the direction where Retro had vanished with the assailant. "Yeah, he's handling it. But I don't know what's going on with them. I just... I had to save Nexus."
Lilly placed a reassuring hand on Atlas's shoulder. "You did what you had to do. Retro will handle the rest. Right now, you need to rest. You've pushed yourself to the limit."
Atlas shook his head, his expression resolute. "Not yet. Not until I know he's safe." He glanced down at Nexus, who was still unconscious but stable, the rise and fall of his chest a comforting rhythm. "We can't stay here. This place isn't safe."
Lilly nodded in agreement. "You're right. We need to get him somewhere secure. But you need to conserve your strength too. Let me help you."
As she spoke, Lilly began to focus her energy, calling upon her own magic to aid in Nexus's recovery. Though her abilities were different from Atlas's, she could still help stabilize him further, easing the strain on Atlas.
Together, they worked quickly, Atlas leaning on Lilly's support as they prepared to move Nexus to a safer location. The night was still fraught with danger, and they couldn't afford to be caught off guard again. With Retro dealing with the attacker elsewhere, it was up to Atlas and Lilly to ensure Nexus's survival until the threat was fully neutralized.
As they carefully lifted Nexus, Lilly glanced at Atlas, a determined look in her eyes. "We'll get through this, Atlas. Nexus is strong, just like you. He'll pull through."
Atlas managed a faint smile, though his heart was still heavy with the weight of the night's events. "He has to," he replied, his voice steady despite the exhaustion. "We all do."
As Atlas and Lilly carefully made their way back to the inn, the air around them was eerily still. The once bustling streets, filled with ghouls and chaos, were now empty. The illusion that had masked the true state of the inn was gone, revealing it for what it really was—a dilapidated, run-down building, barely standing. The night's events had stripped away the façade, leaving only the harsh reality behind.
With Nexus still unconscious in Atlas's arms, they moved quickly but cautiously, not wanting to attract any unwanted attention. The absence of ghouls was unsettling, but there was no time to dwell on it. Their priority was getting Nexus to safety and allowing him to rest and recover.
They finally reached the inn and slipped inside, the door creaking as they pushed it open. The interior was just as decrepit as the exterior, with peeling wallpaper and dusty, worn-out furniture. The place held none of the charm or warmth it once had, but it was the only shelter they had for now.
Atlas and Lilly made their way up the creaky stairs to the room where their belongings were stored. The room was small and bare, but it was quiet—a stark contrast to the chaos they had just escaped from. They gently laid Nexus down on the bed, covering him with a blanket to keep him warm.
Atlas sat down heavily in a chair by the bed, his body finally beginning to feel the full weight of the night's events. Lilly remained standing, her eyes on Nexus, watching over him with a mix of concern and vigilance.
"We'll wait here until Retro returns," Atlas said quietly, his gaze never leaving his son's face. "He'll know what to do next."
Lilly nodded, leaning against the wall, her own exhaustion beginning to show. "He'll be back soon. We just need to hold on a little longer."
The room fell into a tense silence, the only sound the faint rustling of the wind outside and the steady breathing of Nexus as he slept. Both Atlas and Lilly knew that the night was far from over, but for now, all they could do was rest and wait for Retro's return.
As Lilly settled into the balcony chair, the exhaustion from the night's events finally caught up with her. She let out a soft sigh, her body relaxing into the worn-out cushion. Across the room, Atlas slouched in his chair, the weight of the world pressing down on him. The adrenaline that had kept them going was now fading, leaving behind only fatigue and the lingering unease of the unknown.
Sleep overtook them both, a brief and much-needed respite from the turmoil. The inn was quiet, the kind of silence that feels heavy with the aftermath of something terrible. Even the wind seemed to have stilled, as if the entire world was holding its breath.
From the shadows, Retro emerged, his steps silent as he entered the room. He moved with a fluid grace, almost as if he were part of the darkness itself. Seeing his companions finally resting, Retro allowed himself a rare, soft expression. He took a blanket from the bed and gently draped it over Atlas and then over Lilly, his movements careful not to wake them. They had fought hard, and they needed their rest.
With a final glance at the two, Retro walked out onto the balcony. The night was deep and cold, the air crisp with the lingering bite of snow. He climbed onto the roof, his eyes scanning the village below. What had once been a picturesque snowy town was now a desolate, run-down shell of its former self. The flowers that had once bloomed vibrantly were now wilted and buried beneath the snow, a stark reminder of the magic that had warped this place.
Retro's gaze fixed on the field of flowers in the distance. His expression darkened as he recalled the events that had led them here. *The altar,* he thought bitterly. It had been the source of everything—the anti-magic barrier that had stifled their powers, the mansion that had housed horrors unknown, and the madman who had dared to challenge him, thinking he was invincible. Retro clenched his fists, a dark chuckle threatening to escape his lips, but he held it back. There was nothing funny about this. Not anymore.
"Phantom," Retro muttered, his voice low and dangerous.
He looked toward the field of flowers, where a figure stood, almost blending into the darkness. The man's white eyes glowed faintly in the night, his black coat billowing slightly in the cold wind. A dark aura surrounded him, seeping into the ground and tainting everything it touched. This was no ordinary adversary—this was someone who carried with him the weight of true darkness.
Retro felt his own aura respond, a powerful, threatening force that crackled around him like lightning ready to strike. The air grew heavy with tension, as if the very night was bracing itself for what was to come. The quiet village below seemed to hold its breath, caught in the silence between two storms.
The standoff had begun, and Retro knew that what would come next could determine the fate of them all.
As Retro stood on the roof, his aura crackling with anticipation, a sudden gust of wind swept through the village. The snow swirled violently, momentarily obscuring the field of flowers and the figure standing within it. Retro's eyes narrowed, his focus unbroken, but when the wind died down and the snow settled, Phantom was gone.
The dark figure had vanished into the storm, leaving nothing but an eerie stillness in his wake. The tension in the air dissipated, and Retro felt a strange mixture of relief and frustration. The immediate threat had passed, but the encounter had left him unsettled. Phantom's disappearance was not a retreat—it was a promise of something far more dangerous lurking just beyond the veil of snow.
Retro let out a slow breath, his aura calming as the sense of impending danger faded. He glanced back toward the inn where Atlas and Lilly slept, still unaware of how close they had been to another confrontation. Retro knew that Phantom's appearance was a warning—a sign that their journey was far from over and that new challenges awaited them in the shadows.
For now, though, Retro allowed himself a moment of respite. The night had been long and taxing, and while Phantom's retreat had given them a brief reprieve, he knew they would need to be ready for whatever came next. Retro looked out over the snow-covered village one last time, the flowers beneath the snow a stark reminder of the fragile peace they now held.
With a final glance toward the field where Phantom had stood, Retro turned and made his way back down from the roof, silently vowing to stay vigilant. The night might have granted them a moment's peace, but the true battle was still ahead.
The journey back home will be a rough one and retro as a lot to explain.